The Magpies are thought to be leading the race for his signature ahead of a host of other Premier League clubs - with a pre-contract agreement reportedly close to being in place.

Toulouse coach Alain Casanova has backed his chairman's decision, although he conceded his absence will be a loss to the side.

"The whole club shows full solidarity to that chairman's decision," he told L'Equipe.

"It is really a shame a player educated at the club could leave as free agent. His absence is big loss for the team, but that decision is logical."

Sissoko has been a regular in the Toulouse side in recent seasons, and has made five appearances for France.

Newcastle have tied up deals for Massadio Haidara and Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa in recent days, and are set to seal a move for Yoann Gouffran soon after the player revealed on Twitter that he would be joining the Premier League side.